Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Heather Hemmeger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Heather Hemmeger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PharmD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
As both a psychiatric nurse practitioner and former pharmacist, I approach patient care from a unique lens, strategically blending elements of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy to foster healing, restore mind-body balance, and inspire self-compassion. My therapeutic approach can be described as warm, collaborative, and thorough—near the intersection of holistic meets scientific. I work from within a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens and am committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for all who enter my door.
As both a psychiatric nurse practitioner and former pharmacist, I approach patient care from a unique lens, strategically blending elements of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy to foster healing, restore mind-body balance, and inspire self-compassion. My therapeutic approach can be described as warm, collaborative, and thorough—near the intersection of holistic meets scientific. I work from within a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens and am committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for all who enter my door.
Photo of Willamette Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse in Portland, OR
Willamette Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, MSN, LMFT, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Willamette Health & Wellness is a small group practice employing Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and therapists from a variety of training backgrounds. We provide counseling, therapy, and medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and families.
Willamette Health & Wellness is a small group practice employing Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and therapists from a variety of training backgrounds. We provide counseling, therapy, and medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and families.
(503) 444-8729 View (503) 444-8729
Photo of Esther Moseka Odaibo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Esther Moseka Odaibo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
Accepting new patients ! Do you experience undue fear and anxiety ? Do you get confused and disorganized ? I am here to help you! My goal is to establish a therapeutic alliance with you. I want you to feel heard, understood and empowered. Together we will establish sustainable goals to create balance and manage the condition that is of concern to you. I work with patients across lifespan while using evidence based patient centered approaches. In addition to providing medication management and therapy for several mental health conditions, I provide treatment for anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, and bipolar disorder.
Accepting new patients ! Do you experience undue fear and anxiety ? Do you get confused and disorganized ? I am here to help you! My goal is to establish a therapeutic alliance with you. I want you to feel heard, understood and empowered. Together we will establish sustainable goals to create balance and manage the condition that is of concern to you. I work with patients across lifespan while using evidence based patient centered approaches. In addition to providing medication management and therapy for several mental health conditions, I provide treatment for anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, and bipolar disorder.
(971) 999-3237 View (971) 999-3237
Photo of Shinichi Daimyo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Shinichi Daimyo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MPH, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! I aim to bring empathy into every moment of care I provide to my clients. I strive to create an empowering and empathy-focused environment, where the needs, goals, and aspirations of my client's mental health and life are the driving force in how I provide psychiatry and psychotherapy care. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, valuing a client’s experience and perspective as important as my expertise as a mental health provider.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! I aim to bring empathy into every moment of care I provide to my clients. I strive to create an empowering and empathy-focused environment, where the needs, goals, and aspirations of my client's mental health and life are the driving force in how I provide psychiatry and psychotherapy care. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, valuing a client’s experience and perspective as important as my expertise as a mental health provider.
(971) 299-7048 View (971) 299-7048
Photo of Sarah Notton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Sarah Notton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MN, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I am here to assist you on your journey to live a life according to your values. My approach to treating common mental health challenges integrates medication management with skills, healthy lifestyle practices, and social frameworks that support your ability to thrive and engage in the world around you. Expect to collaborate on non-pharmaceutical interventions and activity plans while also working to find the lowest effective dose of medication(s) to help you function optimally.
I am here to assist you on your journey to live a life according to your values. My approach to treating common mental health challenges integrates medication management with skills, healthy lifestyle practices, and social frameworks that support your ability to thrive and engage in the world around you. Expect to collaborate on non-pharmaceutical interventions and activity plans while also working to find the lowest effective dose of medication(s) to help you function optimally.
(503) 470-2470 x1 View (503) 470-2470 x1
Photo of Naomi Suhler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Naomi Suhler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223
Welcome. I'm a Board Certified and Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with advanced training in medication management, mindful based cognitive therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). I provide trauma informed, person-centered care utilizing medications, cognitive-behavioral approaches, mindfulness and coping skills training to individuals seeking relief from mental health symptoms that have impacted their happiness, connection with others, work productivity and quality of life.
Welcome. I'm a Board Certified and Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with advanced training in medication management, mindful based cognitive therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). I provide trauma informed, person-centered care utilizing medications, cognitive-behavioral approaches, mindfulness and coping skills training to individuals seeking relief from mental health symptoms that have impacted their happiness, connection with others, work productivity and quality of life.
(503) 386-0870 View (503) 386-0870
Photo of Christina Vaughn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Christina Vaughn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Prior to meeting with me, you will complete intake paperwork regarding practice policies and your health history. This information will be reviewed during your initial assessment. In most instances medication will be prescribed following the initial assessment when indicated. I will work with you to develop a plan of care that is individualized to incorporate your preferences and develop interventions to help you reach your mental health and overall goals.
Prior to meeting with me, you will complete intake paperwork regarding practice policies and your health history. This information will be reviewed during your initial assessment. In most instances medication will be prescribed following the initial assessment when indicated. I will work with you to develop a plan of care that is individualized to incorporate your preferences and develop interventions to help you reach your mental health and overall goals.
(503) 755-1127 View (503) 755-1127
Photo of Ivydale Psychiatry -Virtual Visit-Children &Adults, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Ivydale Psychiatry -Virtual Visit-Children &Adults
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, DNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
We are offering compassionate care via telepsychiatry(virtual visit) throughout the state of Oregon and accepting new patients for Addiction & Mental Health for Medication Management!!! We have expertise in treating children through adults, with minimal waiting time. Call our office now to get help scheduling your appointment. Telepsychiatry Across Oregon! Be seen from the privacy of your home with our experts! Virtual Compassionate , Comprehensive and Holistic Addiction and Mental Health Care! Schedule your visit today! Medication Management to all ages via Telepsychiatry !
We are offering compassionate care via telepsychiatry(virtual visit) throughout the state of Oregon and accepting new patients for Addiction & Mental Health for Medication Management!!! We have expertise in treating children through adults, with minimal waiting time. Call our office now to get help scheduling your appointment. Telepsychiatry Across Oregon! Be seen from the privacy of your home with our experts! Virtual Compassionate , Comprehensive and Holistic Addiction and Mental Health Care! Schedule your visit today! Medication Management to all ages via Telepsychiatry !
(678) 922-4240 View (678) 922-4240
Photo of Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are perpetually fighting with your own brain? Is your mind constantly wandering making it difficult to get through life? Do your friends joke that you have no concept of time and in social settings, you worry that you are talking too much? Are you or someone you care about struggling with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? You're not alone, and help is available. Synchronous Mental Health specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing these challenges, empowering them to reclaim their mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
Do you feel like you are perpetually fighting with your own brain? Is your mind constantly wandering making it difficult to get through life? Do your friends joke that you have no concept of time and in social settings, you worry that you are talking too much? Are you or someone you care about struggling with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? You're not alone, and help is available. Synchronous Mental Health specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing these challenges, empowering them to reclaim their mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
(971) 252-7298 View (971) 252-7298
Photo of Marco Rudas-Garcia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Marco Rudas-Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. Additionally, I have worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. My professional interests lie in working with trauma patients, as well as individuals with anxiety, depression, and various other mental health needs.
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. Additionally, I have worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. My professional interests lie in working with trauma patients, as well as individuals with anxiety, depression, and various other mental health needs.
(971) 306-4325 x2 View (971) 306-4325 x2
Photo of Sari Matisoff, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Sari Matisoff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Update - Emails from psychology today seem to be getting lost, please fill out the new client inquiry form at www.hmhpdx.com/new-client-inquiries-1 to ensure your communication to the office does not get missed! I specialize in psychiatric medication management for ages 18-64. I have a BA in psychology from Willamette University and Bachelor’s & Master’s degrees in nursing from OHSU. I am licensed to practice in Oregon and Washington. I see psychiatric medications as an added tool to aid in overall well-being, and enjoy working with clients on how to maximize wellness with the least amount of medication needed.
Update - Emails from psychology today seem to be getting lost, please fill out the new client inquiry form at www.hmhpdx.com/new-client-inquiries-1 to ensure your communication to the office does not get missed! I specialize in psychiatric medication management for ages 18-64. I have a BA in psychology from Willamette University and Bachelor’s & Master’s degrees in nursing from OHSU. I am licensed to practice in Oregon and Washington. I see psychiatric medications as an added tool to aid in overall well-being, and enjoy working with clients on how to maximize wellness with the least amount of medication needed.
(971) 290-5261 View (971) 290-5261
Photo of Yoonhui Choe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Yoonhui Choe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225
Yoonhui Choe, PMHNP-BC brings tons of experience to her patients. Couple that with an ability to easily empathize with her clients, she has an amazing ability to help those in need with their stress, anxiety, and depression.
Yoonhui Choe, PMHNP-BC brings tons of experience to her patients. Couple that with an ability to easily empathize with her clients, she has an amazing ability to help those in need with their stress, anxiety, and depression.
(503) 755-8602 View (503) 755-8602
Photo of Sveta Orlova, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Sveta Orlova
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Dr. Sveta Orlova is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who graduated from the University of Washington in Seattle and works with NeuStart Psychiatry & TMS. She has ten years of psychiatry experience with all ages, with a special focus in children and youth. She provides comprehensive evaluations, pharmacotherapy, and TMS services. She also collaborates closely with therapists, and other members of the client's team.
Dr. Sveta Orlova is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who graduated from the University of Washington in Seattle and works with NeuStart Psychiatry & TMS. She has ten years of psychiatry experience with all ages, with a special focus in children and youth. She provides comprehensive evaluations, pharmacotherapy, and TMS services. She also collaborates closely with therapists, and other members of the client's team.
(971) 306-4540 View (971) 306-4540
Photo of Stacey Gramann, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Stacey Gramann
Psychiatrist, DO, MPH
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Not accepting new clients
With my background in osteopathic medicine, my approach to mental health is holistic. I believe that long-term psychotherapy leads to the greatest personal growth. Deeper personal work can be accomplished within a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, and thus, it is fundamentally important that I create such a space for my clients. My therapy approach is rooted in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Through this model, my goal is to help my clients gain insight into their own emotions, how they relate to others, and through a collaborative therapeutic process, be better able to work through issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief. With a holistic focus on the mind and body, adjunct treatment may include a focus on relaxation/meditation, nutrition, sleep, and life style practices. Psychiatric medications are not the focus of my practice. However, I can prescribe medications for those clients attending weekly or more frequent therapy if they are determined to be a helpful adjunct to treatment.
With my background in osteopathic medicine, my approach to mental health is holistic. I believe that long-term psychotherapy leads to the greatest personal growth. Deeper personal work can be accomplished within a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, and thus, it is fundamentally important that I create such a space for my clients. My therapy approach is rooted in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Through this model, my goal is to help my clients gain insight into their own emotions, how they relate to others, and through a collaborative therapeutic process, be better able to work through issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief. With a holistic focus on the mind and body, adjunct treatment may include a focus on relaxation/meditation, nutrition, sleep, and life style practices. Psychiatric medications are not the focus of my practice. However, I can prescribe medications for those clients attending weekly or more frequent therapy if they are determined to be a helpful adjunct to treatment.
(971) 308-4610 View (971) 308-4610
Photo of Kathryn Zerbe, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Kathryn Zerbe
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I work with patients individually and have been inspired to witness personal transformation and growth even after the most difficult life circumstances. My practice includes longer term psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, short-term consultation, and supervision of mental health professionals of all disciplines. Although my approach is primarily psychodynamic, I believe it is important to maintain an integrated treatment perspective because every person is unique. Particular areas of interest include the impact and psychological cost of keeping family secrets, personal growth over the adult life cycle, building resiliency, privacy
I work with patients individually and have been inspired to witness personal transformation and growth even after the most difficult life circumstances. My practice includes longer term psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, short-term consultation, and supervision of mental health professionals of all disciplines. Although my approach is primarily psychodynamic, I believe it is important to maintain an integrated treatment perspective because every person is unique. Particular areas of interest include the impact and psychological cost of keeping family secrets, personal growth over the adult life cycle, building resiliency, privacy
(971) 255-0043 View (971) 255-0043
Photo of Farah Raqib, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Farah Raqib
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Investing in one's well-being, healing and personal growth is a journey I have the privilege to support in my career. I am a board certified adult psychiatrist who has a passion for using therapy and medications as tools for empowerment and learning. To learn more about my practice, please visit website.
Investing in one's well-being, healing and personal growth is a journey I have the privilege to support in my career. I am a board certified adult psychiatrist who has a passion for using therapy and medications as tools for empowerment and learning. To learn more about my practice, please visit website.
(503) 445-8228 View (503) 445-8228
Photo of La Lune Integrative Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
La Lune Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Jennifer is a graduate of Vanderbilt University with 9 years of experience treating patients in community mental health, inpatient/emergency behavioral health, and private practice.
Jennifer is a graduate of Vanderbilt University with 9 years of experience treating patients in community mental health, inpatient/emergency behavioral health, and private practice.
(971) 414-2619 View (971) 414-2619
Photo of Michelle J Roberts, Psychiatric Nurse in Portland, OR
Michelle J Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
My mission is to provide treatment plans tailored to your needs, focused on options and solutions that give you the best chance to succeed. I'm thorough and take the time to understand major life stressors, environments and interpersonal relationships that contribute to your distress. The acuity I encountered working at a psychiatric hospital prepared me for private practice and led to my conservative prescribing approach. I value patient feedback and include it in treatment decisions. My practice focus is medication management but I also offer therapy. My blended therapeutic approach includes elements from many modalities.
My mission is to provide treatment plans tailored to your needs, focused on options and solutions that give you the best chance to succeed. I'm thorough and take the time to understand major life stressors, environments and interpersonal relationships that contribute to your distress. The acuity I encountered working at a psychiatric hospital prepared me for private practice and led to my conservative prescribing approach. I value patient feedback and include it in treatment decisions. My practice focus is medication management but I also offer therapy. My blended therapeutic approach includes elements from many modalities.
(971) 407-5284 View (971) 407-5284
Photo of Dr. Emily DeMarco, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Dr. Emily DeMarco
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97218  (Online Only)
New clients appointments are available within 1 week. I know how much courage it takes to reach out for professional help for yourself, your family or your child. My practice focuses on your unique story, goals and values, and working together on a treatment strategy that will produce lasting change.
New clients appointments are available within 1 week. I know how much courage it takes to reach out for professional help for yourself, your family or your child. My practice focuses on your unique story, goals and values, and working together on a treatment strategy that will produce lasting change.
(971) 231-3441 View (971) 231-3441
Photo of La Lune Integrative Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
La Lune Integrative Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients at joinlalune.com. Jaymie is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who has been working in healthcare for over 15 years. Since 2013, she has worked as a registered nurse and has experience in different areas such as critical care, inpatient medical care and specialty surgeries, cardiology, memory care and rehabilitation, and psychiatry. As a former member of a Program for Assertive Community Treatment (PACT), she became proficient in crisis prevention and intervention, and motivational interviewing. She is an instructor of mental health nursing at the undergraduate university level.
Accepting New Patients at joinlalune.com. Jaymie is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who has been working in healthcare for over 15 years. Since 2013, she has worked as a registered nurse and has experience in different areas such as critical care, inpatient medical care and specialty surgeries, cardiology, memory care and rehabilitation, and psychiatry. As a former member of a Program for Assertive Community Treatment (PACT), she became proficient in crisis prevention and intervention, and motivational interviewing. She is an instructor of mental health nursing at the undergraduate university level.
(971) 414-3064 View (971) 414-3064

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

400+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
95% Depression
81% Medication Management
75% Trauma and PTSD
72% ADHD
72% Bipolar Disorder
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% BlueCross and BlueShield
72% Aetna
68% PacificSource

How Psychiatrists in Portland, OR see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
26% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Portland?

The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?

Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.

Do psychiatrists offer therapy?

Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations. While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.